Experience the classic Himalayan trek to Annapurna Sanctuary staying in Ker and Downey’s comfort trekking lodges and hand picked local trekking lodges.
The Annapurna Sanctuary is a magnificent amphitheatre surrounded by a ring of eleven of Nepal's major peaks including Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Fang, Annapurna II, Roc Noir, Glacier Dome, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Machhapuchhare. The Annapurna Sanctuary is a deeply spiritual place blessed by the the divine presence of the Hindu goddesses Annapurna and Gangapurna and prior to 1956, no one of low caste, no foreigners, and no “impure” foods such as pork, beef, chicken, garlic, and eggs were allowed into the sacred confines of the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Your stay in Nepal begins at the Gokarna Forest Resort, in the Kathmandu Valley before you fly to Pokhara and begin your trek through the foothills of the Annapurna range. Trekking from village to village through the lush green hillsides of the Annapurna Foothills perfectly frame the white peaks of the mighty Himalayas you are soon immersed in the rhythms of rural Nepali village life.

For the first two nights and last night on trek you stay in comfort at Ker and Downey’s unique lodges, which feature en suite rooms, comfortable beds with sheets, blankets, hot showers and hot water bottles. The other seven nights on trek are based at the best available local lodges.

The trek to Annapurna Sanctuary continues through spectacular mountain scenery via Ghundruk, Chomrong, Bamboo and Deurali before passing through the narrowest point in the canyon, Panchenin Barha, into the sanctuary itself. Here you can sit in the Sanctuary meadows at 13, 200' / 4000m enjoying the views of these legendary mountains towering several kilometers above you in all directions.

After a night at Annapurna Base Camp you can look forward to four and a half days of sublime trekking back to the road head and then a short flight back to Kathmandu, where you can look forward to a sightseeing tour visiting Durbar Square, Boudhanath and Kathmandu’s highlights. After a final night at the Gokarna Forest Resort we will transfer you to the airport for your flight home.

DAY 1:
Arrive Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to the Gokarna Forest Resort.

Gokarna Forest Resort is located inside the temperate Gokarna Forest, the former Royal hunting grounds of the Kings of Nepal. A winding road climbs through the forest, up to the main complex, comprising a mix of subtly majestic Malla period architecture, Rana period lodges, and sanctuaries harmoniously blending with nature.

Overnight: Gokarna Forest Resort, (300 m)

DAY 2:
Fly to Pokhara & Trek to Sanctuary Lodge

After an optional early morning flight to Mount Everest, you fly to Pokhara (1000 m). On arrival you will have a briefing at our office before you transfer by road (1 hour) with guides & porters to your trek start point.

Today your walk will follow a ridgeline in the lower foothills of the Annapurna's with wonderful views of the Pokhara Valley. The route then drops to the Modi River Valley, where Ker & Downey's Sanctuary Lodge is located. Lunch is at the lodge followed by an optional walk to the nearby village of Birethanti or the afternoon is free to explore the surrounding river valley.

Trek: 3 - 4 hours

Overnight: Sanctuary Lodge, Birethanti (1150 m) (B, L, D)

DAY 3:
Trek to Himalaya Lodge, Ghandruk

After breakfast, you leave Sanctuary Lodge walking out through farms following the Modi River Valley. Soon you begin to climb out of the valley & up towards the mountains. The trail passes through small hamlets, terraced rice fields and forests with spectacular views of the surrounding valley. Snacks are provided along the trail. Hot lunch is served on arrival at the lodge in the early afternoon.

Located at over 6,500 feet in the shadow of the Annapurna, the Himalaya Lodge overlooks Ghandruk, once a popular recruitment location for the Ghurkhas. With 11 comfortable rooms and stunning mountain views the Himalaya Lodge is a favourite amongst our trekkers.

Trek: 5 - 6 hours, 900m ascent

Overnight: Himalaya Lodge, Ghandruk (2012 m) (B, L, D)

DAY 4:
Trek to Chomrong

Leaving Ghandruk your trail heads steeply downhill to the Kyumnu Khola, a tributary of the Modi Khola, where you will stop for lunch. In the afternoon, you climb to a ridgeline on the west bank of the Modi Khola, gaining a spectacular view of the Matterhorn-like spire of Machhapuchhare. You continue along to Chomrong, the last permanent village below the Annapurna Sanctuary, set at the base of Hiunchuli (6300m).

Trek: 6-7 hours, 770m ascent, 480m descent

Overnight: Local trekking lodge (2170 m)(B, L, D)

DAY 5:
Trek to Bamboo

Hiking through lush rhododendron forest festooned with ferns and orchids, you reach Kuldi Ghar, a small settlement perched on the steep-sided valley. You descend quickly across rock slabs into a bamboo forest. The trail continues through a dense bamboo forest, often over a tangle of roots and fallen bamboo.

Trek: 3.5-4.5 hours, 610m ascent, 510m descent

Overnight: Local trekking lodge (2540 m) (B, L, D)

DAY 6:
Trek to Deurali

The day begins with the trail winding through bamboo forest before you climb gradually but steadily until we emerge into the open spaces above treeline. After hiking across a grassy pasture at Tomo (2545m), you reach the narrowest point in the canyon, Panchenin Barha, the natural “gate” to the sanctuary, with its small trailside shrine.

Before 1956, no one of low caste, no foreigners, and no “impure” foods such as pork, beef, chicken, garlic, and eggs were allowed beyond this shrine into the sacred confines of the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Trek: 3.5 - 4.5 hours, 750m ascent

Overnight: Local trekking lodge (3230 m) (B, L, D)

DAY 8: Machhapuchhare Base Camp

This day is shorter, to aid acclimitisation. The gorge widens as you finally feast your eyes upon the full glory of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Ahead of you lies the lateral moraine of South Annapurna Glacier, with the Modi Khola flowing to our right.

Reach your home for the night, Machhapuchhare Base Camp (3680m), site of a 1957 British Expedition to Machhapuchhare that climbed to within 200' of the summit. Because the peak is sacred to the Gurung people and considered the home of a Gurung goddess, Nepal's government subsequently declared it off limits to climbers and it has remained unclimbed since.

Trek: 2.5 - 3 hours, 500m ascent

Overnight: Local trekking lodge (3680m) (B, L, D)

DAY 9: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp and descend to Himalaya

Wake up early in the morning for your final ascent to Annapurna Base Camp. The trail contours the broad, grassy, and sometimes snow-covered valley. When you reach base camp you are surrounded by a 360-degree panorama of incredible Himalayan peaks: Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Fang, Annapurna II, Roc Noir, Glacier Dome, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Machhapuchhare.

After some time taking in the incredible views, begin your descent. Pass back through Machhapucharre Base Camp and, after you enjoy our last views of the Annapurna Sanctuary, head out the “gate” and follow your outward track back down the valley to Himalaya.

Trek: 6.5 - 7.5 hours, 500 metres ascent followed by 1220m descent

Overnight: Local trekking lodge (2920m) (B, L, D)

DAY 9:
Trek to Sinuwa

You will have a number of steep ascents and descents today to Sinuwa, passing through spectacular Rhododendron and Bamboo forest.

Trek: 5-6 hours, 970m descent, 510m ascent

Overnight: Local trekking lodge (2340m) (B, L, D)

DAY 10:
Trek to Jhinu Danda

You continue downhill, then detour off our former trail and head steeply down to the "New Bridge" on the Modi Khola. From here, the route flattens out somewhat until reaching the small settlement of lodges, known as Jhinu Danda. There is a small hot spring so bring a bathing suit if you’d like to take a dip!

Trek: 2 - 3 hours, 560m descent

Overnight: Local trekking lodge (1500m) (B, L, D).

DAY 11:
Trek to Sanctuary Lodge

You join the main trail again today, trekking mainly along the flats until you reach the Ker & Downey Sanctuary Lodge, for a final night on trek.

Trek: 5 - 6 hours, 1000m descent, 300m ascent

Overnight: K&D Sanctuary Lodge (1150m) (B, L, D)

DAY 12:
Fly to Kathmandu

You walk down to the road head near Birethanti and continue by private vehicle to Pokhara. Once back in Pokhara, bid farewell to your trekking staff and return to Kathmandu by air.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you'll visit Boudhanath: the largest Buddhist Stupa in Nepal. You'll then return to the hotel. The evening if free.

Trek: 2 hours

Overnight: Gokarna Forest Resort (1300m) (B, L)

DAY 13:
Depart Nepal

Transfer to the International airport for your final departure from Kathmandu (B). Post and Pre-nights can be arranged in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara.

Accommodation

On this in-comfort trekking trip we have carefully selected high quality accommodation both on trek and in Kathmandu.

During your trek you will stay three nights at Ker & Downey’s acclaimed trekking lodges in the Annapurna foothills. Ker and Downey lodges offer guests the opportunity to experience the magnificent scenery of the Himalayas in style and comfort whilst staying in en suite rooms with comfortable beds with sheets, blankets, down pillows, hot showers and hot water bottles.

For seven nights on trek you will stay at carefully chosen local trekking lodges. Although more basic we carefully select and book the best lodge in each location for you. You will stay in twin-share rooms where possible but during peak trekking season you may have to stay in rooms with up to 4 people.

In Kathmandu you have two nights at Gokarna Forest Resort. Situated within the city limits of Kathmandu Gokarna Forest Resort is located inside the serene temperate Gokarna Forest, the former private Royal hunting grounds of the Kings of Nepal.

You may wish to extend your stay with a few nights in Pokhara, where we recommend you stay at the Temple Tree Resort and Spa.

Single Rooms and Solo Walkers

Unfortunately this trip is not available to solo walkers,
however if you do require single rooms within your party we would be happy to
accommodate you, although there is a single room supplement payable.

Sanctuary Lodge

Himalaya Lodge

Located at over 6,500 feet in the shadow of the Annapurna, the Himalaya Lodge overlooks Ghandruk, once a popular recruitment location for the Ghurkhas. With 11 comfortable rooms and stunning mountain views the Himalaya Lodge is a favourite amongst our trekkers.

Trekking Lodge

Trekking Lodge

Trekking lodges offer simple but comfortable accommodation on trail. The lodges have a comfortable central living and eating room which is heated and individual twin share bedrooms where possible. During peak trekking season you may have to stay in larger rooms with up to 4 people. Toilets and washing facilities are shared and hot showers may be available for an additional charge in some lodges. Food is simple but tasty and filling.

Temple Tree Resort & Spa

In Pokhara you will stay at the Temple Tree Resort and Spa for one night. Temple Tree is a boutique hotel combining western standards with the distinctive architecture and culture of Nepal’s Western Himalayas. The rooms at the Temple Tree are filled with ethnic touches. Surrounding the rooms are landscaped gardens, water features, a swimming pool and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Gokarna Forest Resort

Situated within the city limits of Kathmandu Gokarna Forest Resort is located inside the serene temperate Gokarna Forest, the former private Royal hunting grounds of the Kings of Nepal.

Alternative Kathmandu Hotels

If you would prefer to stay in the heart of Kathmandu just let us know and we can book your stay at the Yak & Yeti Hotel or Annapurna Hotel for a small supplement.
If you would like a touch of luxury in Kathmandu I would suggest booking the historic Dwarika’s Hotel, undoubtedly the finest property in Kathmandu. There is an additional cost for this.

Hotel Yak & Yeti, Kathmandu

Kathmandu’s Hotel Yak and Yeti is one of Kathmandu’s iconic 5 star hotels. Set in lush gardens only a 10 minute walk from Thamel the hotel has 270 rooms, several restaurants, a spa and swimming pool. It is always a hive of activity with trekking parties and expeditions coming and going.

Annapurna Hotel, Kathmandu

The Annapurna Hotel sits in 5.5 acres of grounds in the centre of Kathmandu a 10 minute walk from Thamel, close to the Royal Palace. Built in 1965 it boasts comfortable modern rooms, a large pool, three restaurants and breakfast is served in the bright coffee shop overlooking the busy street.

Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu

Dwarika’s is undoubtably Kathmandu’s finest heritage hotel. Built upon a rich tradition of Nepali hospitality and incorporating some of the country’s most exquisite architectural traditions, The Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu is an authentic experience of Nepal’s ancient cultural heritage. With 87 meticulously designed rooms and suites, The Dwarika's Hotel Kathmandu offers a regal experience comparable to the royal suites of the 14th century Malla Kings of Nepal.
Each room has been individually designed to immaculately mesh a contemporary lifestyle with a flavor of Newari motifs and stylistic living.

Beautiful gardens, a luxurious pool and spa and impeccable service make a stay at Dwarika’s very special.

Meals & Drinks

All meals except lunches and dinners in Kathmandu are included as is tea with meals. For three nights when staying at Ker and Downey lodges an evening happy hour includes local soft drinks and local alcoholic beverages. Other soft drinks, water and alcoholic drinks are not included.

Availability and Time of Year

The trekking season in the Annapurna region runs from the end of
September to May. The most popular times are October/November, when the
post monsoon mountain air is clear and fresh, and March to April when
the weather is dry and pleasant and the rhododendrons bloom. You can
start your trip on any date in the season.

Average daytime temperatures between
October-November and April-May range from approximately 25c in Kathmandu to
approx. 14c at 3000m, and approximately 3c at 5000m. From December through to
April, the temperatures will be about 5c lower.

Night time temperatures are lower and will
get to below freezing once above 3000m.

Single Rooms & Solo Walkers

If you require single rooms within your party we would be happy to accommodate you although there is a single room supplement payable. Unfortunately this trip is not available to solo walkers.

Air Travel in Nepal

Due to the nature of our treks in Nepal, access to the start point is
often only possible by taking an internal flight. Flying in Nepal is an
acknowledged risk due to the changeable nature of mountain weather and
the fact that the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal does not operate to
the same standards as those of the UK and other western nations.

However, we have taken steps to ensure that our customers travelling
to Nepal are as safe as they can possibly be by becoming stakeholders in
an independent air audit of Nepal airlines undertaken by UK tour
operators in 2015. This audit deemed several airlines as safe to fly to
with including Yeti Airlines and Tara Air, and our itineraries will only
include flights with these particular airlines. Tara and Yeti Airlines
have also fulfilled the IATA Standard Safety Assessment (ISSA) which is a
new global safety standard for commercial airlines operating smaller
aircraft.

Whilst we have taken the above steps, you should be aware that flying
in mountainous areas like Nepal does carry with it a certain amount of
risk.

Your Guide & Porters

Quality guides make the difference between a great trip and an
unforgettable experience. Our Nepali guides are qualified and trained.
All have many years experience of guiding trekkers in Nepal, and speak
fluent English.

They bring a wealth of knowledge to your journey, opening your eyes
to the legends, culture, food, flora and fauna of the Himalayas.
Additionally they are first aid trained and trained and experienced in
dealing with cases of Altitude Sickness.

Your luggage will be transported by porters (1 porter between 2 people).

Fitness, Grade & Terrain

This trekking trip is graded moderate to strenuous and includes between 3 and 7 hours of trekking each day with up to 1000m of ascent. The maximum altitude is 4100m (13,550 ft ). To get the most from this trip you should be comfortable walking for up to seven hours through hilly terrain. You follow well maintained paths and tracks, away from the tourist trail. Some short sections can be steep so walking poles are helpful.

During your trek you will be accompanied by an experienced guide so you do not need to navigate.

Equipment

You will need comfortable walking/hiking clothes and footwear, warm and waterproof clothes and comfortable clothes fro the evening. We will send you a comprehensive packing list on confirmation of your booking.

Additionally we include the loan of a duffle bag, sleeping bag for use at local lodges, walking poles and water bottle if you require them. Down jackets, gloves and warm hats are provided at the comfort lodges for cooler evenings but you should have your own for the nights at local lodges.

Travel Insurance

It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity, emergency evacuation and hospital care.

General Information:

The distances and ascent/descents are approximations of the recommended routes. Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, (for example, proper rain gear jacket and pants, sun hat, sunscreen). Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes or the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.

Visa

Please be aware that you need a tourist visa for Nepal to enter. You can get this upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, where a few forms need to be filled out before you can go through customs. You will need to make sure you have the right amount of USD with you and two passport photos in order to obtain your visa. Alternatively Nepali embassies will also issue visas.

Getting to Nepal

Kathmandu International Airport has excellent connections to the UK, Europe, North America and Australia/New Zealand. Most flights from the UK and Europe go via India or the Gulf.

Getting to Nepal

Kathmandu International Airport has excellent connections to the UK, Europe, North America and Australia/New Zealand. Most flights from the UK and Europe go via India or the Gulf.

Extras

Additional nights

Accommodation upgrade in Kathmandu

Single room supplement

How far in advance do I need to book?

We suggest you book as soon as your plans are finalised as the region is extremely popular especially over October/November and March/April. However, we will always try our best to accommodate your plans.

How fit do I need to be?

Annapurna Sanctuary is graded moderate to strenuous so you need to be relatively fit and have some experience of multi-day walking.

How is my baggage transported on trek?

Your bags will be transported on trek by local porters. We have a strict porter protection policy and, for this reason, we ask you to keep your baggage weight to a maximum of 15kgs per person. If you do want more luggage than this for your trip it is possible to leave items you will only want for Kathmandu at your hotel, thus helping to decrease the weight of the bag your are taking on trek.

What equipment do I need?

Your detailed information pack will be sent to you after you book. This has a detailed equipment list which includes standard trekking gear such as good walking shoes, warm and waterproof clothes and a day pack. Remember when you are staying in the trekking lodges you will need to have your own sleeping bag.

When is the best time of year?

The trekking season in the Annapurna region runs from mid-September to May. The most popular times are October/November, when the post monsoon mountain air is clear and fresh, and March to April when the weather is dry and pleasant and the rhododendrons bloom. Trekking is possible from December to February but it can be cold at night at high altitude.

Will I be affected by altitude sickness?

The effects of altitude vary between each individual; all our itineraries are designed to minimise the chances of you suffering from the symptoms of altitude sickness. We take rest days in order for your body to acclimatise, and our leaders are fully trained and experienced in dealing with issues related to altitude, should it affect you. The Annapurna Sactuary trek does not go quite as high as some of the treks in the Everest region; therefore there is less risk of feeling the effects of altitude here.

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Itinerary

DAY 1: Arrive Kathmandu
DAY 2: Fly to Pokhara, trek to Sanctuary Lodge
DAY 3: Trek to Himalaya Lodge
DAY 4: Trek to Chomrong
DAY 5: Trek to Bamboo
DAY 6: Trek to Deurali
DAY 7: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
DAY 8: Trek to Himalaya
DAY 9: Trek to Sinuwa
DAY 10: Trek to Jhinu Danda
DAY 11: Trek to Sanctuary Lodge
DAY 12: Fly to Kathmandu & Sightseeing
DAY 13:Depart Kathmandu

Is this tour for me?

Choose this trip if you would like to enjoy one of the Himalaya’s classic treks in comfort, staying at Ker & Downey comfort trekking lodges and hand picked local trekking lodges.

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